Use this Ofsted checklist to review key ICT systems before inspection day, including broadband, Wi-Fi, servers, backups, filtering, classroom displays, devices and staff access. See our Ofsted support page for short notice and emergency help if an inspection has been announced.
It is designed for schools and MATs that want a quick practical check of common ICT issues that can cause disruption during an inspection.
1. Core Network and Internet Checks
- Broadband connection is live and stable.
- Core network switches are powered on and operating normally.
- Wi-Fi is working across classrooms and offices.
- Wireless access points are powered and connected.
- No known network outages affecting teaching or admin areas.
2. Server Health and Storage Checks
- Server disk space has been checked and is sufficient.
- No server hardware warning lights or alerts are present.
- Shared drives are accessible.
- Staff and pupil logins are working.
- Printing and network services are functioning normally.
3. Backup and Recovery Checks
- Latest backup jobs have completed successfully.
- Backup reports have been checked.
- Remote backup status has been confirmed (if used).
- Disaster recovery arrangements are documented and available.
- Any backup errors or warnings have been resolved or flagged.
4. Safeguarding, Filtering and Monitoring Checks
- Internet filtering is active and working as expected.
- Monitoring systems are operational.
- Staff can access required websites/resources.
- Any recent filtering requests have been reviewed.
- Safeguarding-related ICT issues have been checked and resolved.
5. Classroom Technology Checks
- Interactive displays/whiteboards are working in key classrooms.
- Projectors (if used) are working correctly.
- A spare laptop is available if needed.
- HDMI/USB cables are available as backup.
- Interactive display software is installed and ready to use.
6. Devices and Charging Checks
- Charging trolleys are plugged in and working.
- Laptops, Chromebooks and iPads are charged.
- Classroom devices are connected and ready for use.
- Spare chargers/adapters are available where needed.
- Any known device issues have been logged for support.
7. Staff Access and Admin System Checks
- Staff can access email and key systems (e.g. Microsoft 365/Google Workspace).
- Admin office devices and printers are working.
- MIS access is available for authorised staff.
- Visitor sign-in/reception devices are operational (if applicable).
- Urgent support contact details are available to staff.
8. Inspection Day Contingency Checks
- Key lesson resources are downloaded in case of internet disruption.
- A clear process is in place for reporting urgent technical issues.
- Helpdesk contact details are visible for staff.
- Temporary workaround devices/cables are ready if needed.
- ICT support escalation route is confirmed (remote/onsite/third-line).
Need help working through this Ofsted preparation checklist?
Need help before inspection day? Classroom365 provides remote and onsite ICT support, including short-notice help with Wi-Fi, servers, backups, filtering, devices and staff access.